Groove: Examining Its Impact on San Francisco Rave Culture and Beyond

Groove Is in the Heart (and on the Screen): Exploring the Multifaceted World of "Groove" in Movies and Beyond

The term "groove" refers to more than just music. It embodies a vibe and a state of being. Interestingly, "groove" appears frequently in movies and cultural phenomena. From raves to comedies, the concept has found its way into various genres. Let's explore this groovy world.

Groove (The Unsung Hero of San Francisco Rave Culture)

First, we have Groove, a film centered on the San Francisco rave scene of the late '90s. It features beats, lights, and glow sticks. This film avoids mainstream Hollywood style to embrace an authentic feel. Shot in iconic spots, Groove is practically a love letter to the city's underground culture.

Filmed over 24 days in August and September of 1999, the movie captures rave energy. It focuses less on a scripted story and more on experience. Details on specific DJs may be limited, but the heart of Groove lies in the collective experience and the magic of music.

The Emperor's New Groove: When "Groove" Takes an Animated Turn

Next is The Emperor's New Groove. This animated film shifts from rave culture to Disney's vibrant world. Here, "groove" transforms into a comedic journey with colorful characters and ancient settings.

Inspired by Peruvian heritage, the film follows self-absorbed Emperor Kuzco, who is voiced by David Spade. His plans change when his advisor Yzma, played by Eartha Kitt, seeks the throne. She turns him into a llama as part of her scheme.

Kronk, Yzma's dimwitted henchman voiced by Patrick Warburton, adds humor to the plot. The duo's antics become a buddy adventure as Kuzco teams up with peasant Pacha to regain his throne. The film captures finding one's rhythm in a quirky way.

The Groove Tube: Channeling Satire with a Side of Chevy Chase

For vintage comedic "groove," look to The Groove Tube. This film presents satire instead of feel-good vibes. It features comedic sketches that critique television shows and commercials with humor.

The Groove Tube is known for being raunchy and unapologetic. This film marks Chevy Chase's debut before his iconic roles. The film includes a "Brown 25" commercial, showcasing its satirical nature. If you prefer comedy without traditional plots, The Groove Tube fits that description.

How Stella Got Her Groove Back: Romance, Jamaica, and a 20-Year Age Gap

Next, we explore a romantic vibe in How Stella Got Her Groove Back. Released in 1998, this film highlights rediscovering passion in unexpected locales, specifically Jamaica. Directed by Kevin Rodney Sullivan and based on Terry McMillan's novel, it showcases engaging storytelling.

The story features Stella, a 42-year-old woman played by Angela Bassett. Her free-spirited friend Delilah, portrayed by Whoopi Goldberg, encourages her to vacation in Jamaica. In Montego Bay, Stella meets charming 20-year-old Winston Shakespeare, played by Taye Diggs.

The film contrasts Stella's structured life in Marin County with the vibrant Montego Bay setting. In Jamaica, Stella finds romance and her "groove." Interestingly, the filming location is the Round Hill Hotel in Montego Bay. Villa 11 offers ideal vacation spots with indoor-outdoor spaces and beautiful views.

How Stella Got Her Groove Back reflects McMillan's life experiences, adding depth to Stella's story. The movie tackles age differences in relationships, bringing both comedic and emotional moments to the forefront.

For insights into the film's making and Angela Bassett's reflections at its 25th anniversary, check out Angela Bassett on 'How Stella Got Her Groove Back' at 25 in The New York Times and the Wikipedia page for 'How Stella Got Her Groove Back'.

Into the Groove: Madonna's Musical Contribution to the "Groove" Canon

No exploration of "groove" is complete without music. One standout is Into the Groove. While not a movie title, it is a Madonna song featured in her 1985 film Desperately Seeking Susan. This song became a signature hit linked to Madonna's sound.

Written and produced alongside Stephen Bray, "Into the Groove" radiates pure pop energy. The song captures the thrill of losing oneself in dance and music. Though Desperately Seeking Susan is stylish and unique, "Into the Groove" enhances its musical legacy.

Beyond the Silver Screen: A World of "Groove"

The concept of "groove" extends beyond films and songs. It exists in bands, brands, and social movements. Here are a few notable "groove"-related entities:

• One Groove (Band): Based in Hawaii, this collective includes talented musicians such as Chris Lavatai and Keone Catian.
• Groove B. Chill (Group): A New York group from the '80s featuring Gene 'Groove' Allen, who shaped the hip-hop scene.
• Hubbs Groove (Band): Founded by Rodney Hubbard and others, this band offers a different musical groove.
• The Grove (Shopping Complex):
• The Grove in Los Angeles is a popular shopping spot owned by Rick Caruso. A judge recently ordered The Grove to allow protests for Caruso's mayoral race. Learn more in this Daily News article. The Grove opened in 2002 and remains well-loved.
• Groove Theory (Duo): Amel Eliza Larrieux and Bryce Wilson formed this duo in the mid-1990s. Larrieux is known for her soulful voice. Though a second album, The Answer, was planned, Larrieux chose a solo career, leaving the album incomplete.
• Big Groove (Musician): Clive Ibizugbe, now known as Big Groove, was called Groovin Gorilla. He stands five feet eleven inches tall and weighs 270 pounds. He has a prominent presence in the music scene.
• Groove Phi Groove (Fraternity): This fraternity reflects the "groove" culture and enhances its reach across communities.
• TC and the Groove Family (Band): Tim Cook (TC) drives this band. With Pariss Elektra and Franz Von upfront, they create dynamic live shows. These performances combine moments of euphoria with stillness.
• Chestnut Grove (Band): Formed in 2011, this indie-rock quintet from Perkiomenville, PA, includes Dee, James Daniels, Zachary Winkler, John Tyler, and Gary Geers.
• Groove Cartel (Show): AshMopedi and his friends founded Groove Cartel. It is a show that celebrates street culture and music.
• Groove Life (Company): Groove Life is based in Spring Hill, Tennessee. CEO Peter Goodwin leads the company in lifestyle products.
• Guy Groove (Choreographer): Guy Amir, known as Guy Groove, is a choreographer from Los Angeles. He is involved in dance as a teacher and creative director.
• Sirius XM's The Groove: The Groove is a Sirius XM channel. It had a brief Michael Jackson takeover in 2014 before resuming normal programming in August 2015.
• Groove Radio: Groove Radio offers a "groove" experience. The app is available on iOS and Android.
• Dark Latin Groove (DLG): DLG, this group faced a change when lead singer Huey Dunbar left for a solo career after their third album in 2000.
• Groove is in the Heart (Song): Finally, "Groove is in the Heart." Helen Mead from NME called it "playfully funky." It is an anthem of the "groove" movement.

From films capturing underground scenes to romantic comedies exploring life's rhythm, and artists who inspire movement, "groove" resonates across genres. It showcases the power of rhythm, passion, and finding one's beat in the world.